Travel Blog – EcoRing

Marin Authority Speaks Up for Electric Vehicles and Alternative Fuels

By Mel Barnard

The Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) has exciting—or rather, electrifying news to share. Agencies around Marin are adding Electric Vehicles to their fleet and upgrading or installing equipment appropriately for that change.

Transitioning to electric can drive positive change in your life. On a personal level, you don’t have to worry about oil changes, you can save $1,200 a year on fuel and maintenance, electricity is cheaper than gasoline by a significant margin, etc. Transitioning also helps the community by driving more local spending with gas savings and putting safer vehicles on the road. Electric Vehicles also cut out tailpipe emissions and reduce ecological damages to our climate.

TAM has created resources for those looking to transition to more sustainable fuel vehicles as well as information for the community at large. Some of these resources are linked below, but you can find out even more information on their site.

U.S. Bicycle Route System

Why doesn’t Sonoma County participate in the The U.S. Bicycle Route System? Time to ask our Supervisors.

The U.S. Bicycle Route System (USBRS) is a developing national network of bicycle routes connecting urban and rural communities via signed roads and trails. Created with public input, U.S. Bicycle Routes direct bicyclists to a preferred route through a city, county, or state – creating opportunities for people everywhere to bicycle for travel, transportation, and recreation.

Over 14,000 miles are currently established in 27 states and Washington DC – and many routes are signed.

Since 2005, Adventure Cycling has been proud to shepherd the growth of the USBRS. We provide free technical assistance, coordination, and resources to assist stakeholder groups in their designation efforts.

Together, we’re building the largest public bike route network in the world!

In a Global Health Emergency, the Bicycle Shines

Author Laura Laker

Speaking in Parliament in London earlier this year, Chris Boardman, the former Olympian cyclist and the walking and cycling commissioner of Manchester, said: “Pick a crisis, and you’ll probably find cycling is a solution.”He was talking about climate, health and air pollution, but he also might as well have been talking about coronavirus.

As Covid-19 rages, almost half of the world’s population is under some form of restricted movement. In a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus, people must stay home, aside from strictly limited essential trips for food and medicine and a daily outing for exercise. We all need to comply with restrictions to bring this life-threatening virus under control. I believe the best way to keep a safe distance from others when we do move is by walking, and cycling.

Shelter in Place Location Updates

Many Marin County Parks locations are reopening on Monday, May 18, 2020, per the updated public health order. Visitors should maintain six feet of social distance. Carry a face covering and put it on when needed. Limited parking at large regional parks, to support social distancing. Other restrictions may apply, even at open locations. Please respect posted signs and guidance from rangers. Check each location below for details.